Vehicle export business with a small yard

Overseas dealers and trade buyers who order vehicles regularly, plus some private buyers abroad.

Margin on each vehicle sold, often improved by buying in bulk, sharing container space and building repeat dealer customers.

• Vehicle knowledge and basic condition checks
• Managing cash flow and stock
• Dealing with shipping agents and buyers abroad

• Planning permission and business rates for the yard, check with your local council
• Motor trade insurance, public liability and cover for vehicles stored on site
• Large sums tied up in stock: a vehicle that does not sell can hurt cash flow
• Export documents, customs rules and VAT treatment of exports, check with HMRC or an accountant
• Duties, age limits and import bans in destination countries, which may change

Estimates put startup costs typically around £20,000 to £80,000, depending on the yard or unit you rent, how much stock you buy and your insurance. Remember that money tied up in vehicles can strain cash flow.

Check planning permission and business rates for your yard with your local council, plus motor trade, public liability and stored-vehicle insurance. Also check export documents, customs rules and VAT treatment with HMRC or an accountant, and destination countries' duties, age limits and import bans.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around £10,000 to £50,000, depending on how many vehicles you ship and the mix of buyers. That is revenue, not profit, and it is usually a full-time business of around 35 hours a week or more.